Tiswas EP

Tiswas EP is the debut extended play by the English duo Sleaford Mods, released on 24 November 2014 through Invada Records and produced by Andrew Fearn. The record takes its name from its title track that previously appeared on the band's previous album Divide and Exit (2014), which is in turn a reference to Tiswas, the UK children's television show from the 1970s and 1980s.

The remainder of the EP features four original tracks, which show the band incorporating elements of hip-hop and funk with the use of Fearn's minimalist backing tracks, whilst Jason Williamson's vocals and lyrics focus more on a dark and direct approach, often referencing popular figures and places. Tiswas EP was met with positive reviews upon release and peaked at no. 48 on the UK Physical Singles Chart.

Background and recording

The EP contains five songs recorded in England in 2014, all of which are original pieces with the exception of the title track, previously appearing on the acclaimed Divide and Exit (2014) which saw the band gain significant popularity. Shortly before the release of Tiswas EP, Jason Williamson quit his office job to focus full-time on music.

Composition

Aside from the title track, the four original pieces on Tiswas EP feature a more minimal musical backing by Andrew Fearn, and the tone is darker overall, with Williamson opting for a more lyrically direct approach compared to previous releases. Consequently, the record relies less on humour, though not without the occasional moments of levity, such as on the EP's closer.

The opener and title track "Tiswas" is named after Tiswas, a children's show from the 1970s and 1980s in the UK. Williamson sings over a predominantly post-punk backing track with lyrics making fun of, for example, the guitar shop culture of Denmark Street.